Better known for getting battered by hurricanes and battling poverty, Honduras is still a thriving playground for holidaymakers, that unveils enchanting nature, architectural marvels, impressive ruins, bustling centers and the sparkling Caribbean Sea.
The big cities offer good hotels and amenities, while the smaller ones are slowly developing. Most locals still live in poverty. Crime rates are high in touristy areas, so travelers should always be on guard. Those who stray off the beaten track will be bewitched by the low-key yet spectacular natural beauty of the country, but make sure you are equipped with every essential you can find to keep those nasty insects away.
When to Go
Honduras can be visited anytime of the year. The climate varies depending on the altitude of the location however it is mostly warm in the daytime and cool at night. The Pacific and Caribbean coasts offer breezy weather and occasional cooling rain showers.
Avoid the hurricane season (October and November) when heavy rains cause serious flooding. Since Honduras is usually sunny, pack a lot of shorts, sun dresses, swimwear and flip-flops. Leave your winter gear at home.
Things to Do
Fishing: if fishing is your thing, pack necessary equipment and head out to Lake Yojoa where you can rub shoulders with local fishermen. The lake is home to more than 370 bird species, so remember to bring your binoculars.
Sailing: at Honduyate Marina, a recreational center on the East shore of Lake Yojoa, where there are many sailboats for rent. Those not into sailing can have a splash in the public pool while checking out other hot, well-tanned fellow swimmers.
Snorkeling and diving: grab those goggles and jump in the inviting, crystal clear waters surrounding the Bay Islands. This area is rich with marine life and beautiful coral reefs. The beaches are also ideal for lazing around and practicing your people-gawking skills.
Hiking: save your favorite pair of Hugo Boss and Jimmy Choo for a night out and put on your hiking boots. Pico Bonito National Park near La Ceiba has breathtaking scenery, steep slopes and lovely waterfalls to wow you away.
Shopping: panic not, shopaholics. Even though the shopping scene here isn’t exactly something to write home about, local markets are worth exploring. Ceramics, woodcarvings, cigars and leather goods are cheap and of impressive quality. Going bohemian with local straw hats and seed necklace isn’t such a bad idea either.
Getting There
Traveling to Honduras is quite an easy task. International airports are located in San Pedro Sula, Tegucigalpa (Toncontin) and Roatan, with regular services to and from Central American capitals, North America and Europe. Motorists can also drive from Guatemala, El Salvador, or Nicaragua, while taking a bus is a cheap option to get to Honduras from Guatemala, Nicaragua and El Salvador.
Boats aren’t frequent, but fancy cruises usually stop at the Bay Islands. Hitchhiking around the country is common but not recommended. Think twice before deciding to use your thumb.
Health & Safety
Only drink water from a bottle wherever you are in Honduras. Big cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula are well-known for robbery and crime. Avoid walking on the streets at night, especially if you are a woman. There are safe areas and dangerous areas in most cities, so befriend locals and ask them for this ‘inside’ information.
There is high a risk of malaria, dengue fever and HIV in Honduras, while hazardous, creepy creatures such as mosquitoes, snakes, spiders and scorpions are aplenty in the jungles. If you plan to go into the woods, dress sensibly. Ditch that short camouflage skirt no matter how fashionable, arm yourself with insect-repellent and opt for a pair of long pants instead.